Pears Baked In Red Wine
Sweet and warming baked pears infused with red wine, cinnamon, and vanilla, perfect as an elegant dessert for special occasions or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine wine, sugar, cinnamon stick, bay leaf, and vanilla in a 9-inch round pie plate or other baking dish.
- Stir to blend.
- Cut a thin slice from the bottom of each pear so they can stand upright.
- Place pears in the wine mixture and spoon some sauce over each pear.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 to 55 minutes, basting frequently with wine as it thickens and pears become tender.
- Remove bay leaf and vanilla bean if used.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with wine spooned over each serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more complex flavor, try adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the wine mixture. If Bosc pears are unavailable, Anjou pears work well too. To enhance the spice profile, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or clove. This recipe is also excellent for using up overripe pears, making it a wonderful way to reduce waste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked pears warm or at room temperature, drizzled with the reduced wine sauce. They pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent dessert. For a more sophisticated touch, consider serving them alongside a cheese platter featuring sharp cheeses, or with a light salad like French And English Salad to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked pears can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of red wine and cover with foil. Warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, ensuring they remain tender.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pears Baked In Red Wine contains roughly 534 calories, with 10g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (104% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 29g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use white wine instead of red wine?
While the recipe is specifically for red wine, using a dry white wine can create a lighter flavor profile. However, the color and richness will differ, so expect a different outcome. If you prefer white, consider using a full-bodied option like Chardonnay.
How can I tell when the pears are done baking?
The pears are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork, typically after 45 to 55 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking, as they can become mushy if left too long. Basting frequently helps achieve an even texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it does not include any animal products. Just ensure that the sugar used is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char. Enjoy this delightful dessert without any modifications necessary!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).